The city's Economic Development Corp. recently conducted a secret study to determine just how much cash New York would pull in on James' cachet - and pegged it at an eye-popping $57.8 million.

The study was based on two key factors:

- The James-led Knicks would make it through the playoffs to win home-court advantage in the NBA finals.

- The Knicks would win their first title since 1973 in Game 7 of the best-of-seven championship, meaning four games are played at Madison Square Garden.

Two sources who have seen the top-secret study said James would help pump nearly $58 million into the city as out-of-towners book hotel rooms and fans chow down in city restaurants.

Those hotels and restaurants would spend cash stocking up on supplies and staff - and Knicks fans would grab all kinds of team gear. Each transaction would splash cash - and tax revenue - around the city.

But New York's dream - on the court and the coffers - may be an air ball.

On Tuesday night, King James told CNN's Larry King that Cleveland, of all places, is his kind of kingdom - and has the edge in keeping his services.

"Absolutely," James said in the interview set to air Friday. "Because, you know, this city [Cleveland], these fans, I mean, have given me a lot in these seven years.

"And, you know, for me, it's comfortable. So I've got a lot of memories here. And - and so it does have an edge."

The sitdown with the suspenders-loving serial divorcé is the first time James has spoken at length about his future since the Cavs' playoff ouster.

Akron's favorite son is set to become the most sought-after free agent in NBA history - and Cleveland appears willing to match any offers.

New Yorkers can hope the lure of swapping some way Off-Broadway outpost for the real thing is too much for the 25-year-old superstar to pass on.

He has already taken a shine to the Big Apple, doffing a Yankees cap and designing a set of Nikes in the fabled pinstripes.